Not-so-hidden Gems in California

November 9, 2017

Recently, I took a trip with my good friend Leslie to wander a litter further than home. We decided why not make the trek out to Salvation Mountain and the Imperial Sand Dunes! The last time I made the trip to Salvation Mountain was a few years ago, and you can read all about that trip here.

This time around, we were on a mission! To create, enjoy, and make memories. And it was definitely a day full of adventure!

Salvation Mountain

I will never get tired of this place no matter how many times I see it on Instagram and even though I’ve only visited once before. I was so stoked to check it out again because I heard it got repainted and just wanted to get a little creative there with Leslie! If you don’t know already, Leslie is an amazing photographer who captures vibrant images and really channels that girl power! It was so much fun especially because it was her first time there. I wish we had more time there, but it was great nonetheless!

Imperial Sand Dunes

Located about 50 minutes away from Salvation Mountain was this sight of endless sand and beautiful sky! This was a place I never knew even existed and it was so well worth the extra drive out there! There were off-road vehicles whizzing by that I was kind of terrified to even go on the dunes but luckily Leslie just said “fuck it” and I followed. Then she worked her magic and captured some of my favorite photos of myself! We also got to see one of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen in my life!

If you’re ever in need of some adventure, a transportation to another world without having to go too far from San Diego, I highly recommend making a day trip to check out these hidden gems! Next time around, I’ll be on one of those off-roading bikes because it looked like so much fun!

I always tend to tell myself I need to plan a big vacation or trip out of San Diego, but I remember that there is so much more to explore if I just wander a little further! So don’t forget to recognize these not-so-hidden gems!

Special Thanks to Leslie for making the drive with me and capturing these beautiful moments! I had a blast! And a special thank you to Huntress Florals for creating such a beautiful piece for this shoot!

Not-so-hidden Gems in California was last modified: November 9th, 2017 by alyssamopia